HSBC not treating your complaint fairly?

Keep account statements and secure messages as evidence.

Content is for general information only — confirm deadlines with regulators and ombudsmen.

Your rights

Key protections that often apply in this sector. Always check the latest official guidance.

FCA DISP complaints rules

HSBC UK must handle complaints under FCA DISP rules. They must acknowledge your complaint promptly, investigate it, and send a final response within 8 weeks for most complaint types. The final response must explain your right to refer to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

FCA Handbook DISP 1.6

Section 75 on HSBC credit cards

If you paid for goods or services costing between £100 and £30,000 on an HSBC credit card, Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 may make HSBC jointly liable for the supplier's misrepresentation or breach of contract.

Consumer Credit Act 1974 section 75

APP fraud reimbursement

Under the PSR's mandatory reimbursement requirement, HSBC must reimburse eligible victims of authorised push payment fraud, subject to conditions and limits. If refused, escalate through the complaints process.

PSR APP fraud reimbursement rules

Consumer Duty

HSBC must deliver good outcomes for retail customers under the FCA's Consumer Duty, covering products, value, understanding, and support.

FCA Consumer Duty

Escalation timeline

Typical stages for UK consumer complaints in this sector.

  1. 1

    Raise a formal complaint with HSBC

    Complain through branch, phone, secure message, or post. Be specific about the issue and what you want. Get a complaint reference. For fraud cases, report the fraud first through the dedicated line, then complain formally if unhappy with the outcome.

    FCA DISP
  2. 2

    Provide evidence in writing

    Send a detailed written complaint with account statements, transaction records, correspondence, and a clear chronology. State the financial impact and your desired resolution.

  3. 3

    Receive the final response

    HSBC must send a final response within 8 weeks. It must explain their decision and your FOS referral rights. Read it carefully and note any points they missed.

    Within about 8 weeksFCA DISP 1.6
  4. 4

    Refer to the Financial Ombudsman Service

    If unhappy, refer to FOS within 6 months of the final response. Free for consumers. FOS can award compensation up to the current limit. Binding on HSBC if you accept.

    Financial Services and Markets Act 2000

Common issues

Fraud and scam reimbursement

APP fraud victims being refused reimbursement, delays in investigating fraud reports, and disputes over whether the customer was negligent.

International transfer problems

Transfers delayed, lost, or incurring unexpected fees. Disputes over exchange rates applied and correspondent bank charges not disclosed upfront.

Mortgage administration

Errors in statements, disputes over early repayment charges, difficulties switching rates, and poor handling of arrears or forbearance requests.

Account closures and restrictions

Accounts closed or frozen without clear explanation, difficulty accessing funds during reviews, and inadequate notice periods.

Credit card disputes

Section 75 claims being refused or mishandled, promotional rate disputes, and charges not matching agreed terms.

Customer service

Branch closures making access difficult, long wait times for phone support, and complaints not being properly escalated.

Get your HSBC complaint letter in 60 seconds

Citing FCA Handbook (DISP), Consumer Credit Act 1974 with your specific case details — editable before you send anything.

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Suggestions are for guidance only. Always verify with official sources.

Frequently asked questions

How do I make a Section 75 claim to HSBC?
Write to HSBC stating clearly that you are making a claim under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974. Explain what you bought, what went wrong, and attach evidence. Do not let them treat it as a standard chargeback.
HSBC Premier vs standard — do my rights differ?
No. DISP rules apply equally regardless of your account tier. Premier customers have the same complaints and FOS referral rights as standard customers.
What about HSBC business account complaints?
FOS eligibility depends on your business size. Micro-enterprises and small businesses may be eligible — check the FOS website for the current definitions.
International transfer disputes?
If an international transfer went wrong, was delayed, or incurred unexpected fees, raise a formal complaint. Keep the transfer confirmation and any fee disclosures you were given.
Is the FOS free?
Yes. Completely free for consumers. HSBC pays the case fee. No solicitor needed.
Mortgage complaints?
HSBC mortgage complaints follow the same DISP process. Common issues include rate changes, early repayment charges, and arrears handling.
Can HSBC close my account?
Banks can close accounts, but must follow their terms and give adequate notice. If HSBC closed your account without proper notice or froze funds unreasonably, complain formally.
What evidence do I need?
Account statements, transaction records, correspondence, screenshots of online banking, notes from branch visits or calls, and any product terms or marketing material.

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